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QPR Training

QPR training prepares you to know what to do if you suspect someone is contemplating
suicide. Just as knowing CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) allows you to prevent
a death by heart attack, knowing QPR allows you to prevent a death by suicide. QPR
stands for Question, Persuade, and Refer. By completing QPR training you will know
how to question someone to ascertain if she or he is contemplating suicide. You will
know how to persuade her or him to not commit suicide and to seek help. You will
know how to refer this person to professionals that can begin treatment.

QPR training was designed and then shared nationwide by Paul Quinnett, Ph.D. The goal
of QPR is to train as many people as possible in the warning signs of suicide and
the most effective steps to take to prevent a suicide. The staff at the WKU Counseling
and Testing Center are certified to provide QPR training to faculty, staff, and students
as well as the surrounding community. We have made presentations to departments, offices,
classrooms, and student organizations. The QPR training usually takes an hour to an
hour and a half. Upon completion of QPR training, all participants receive a summary
brochure and are registered with the QPR organization.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college aged students. It is also
one of the most preventable causes of death. But even today we see so much shame and
anxiety about suicide; the stigma is still powerful and suicidal people are often
reluctant to ask for help. Most people who attempt suicide do NOT want to be dead.
They just want their lives to change but do not know how to get help or they are ashamed
to ask for help.

QPR training helps you understand suicide so that it is less frightening; you can
feel more comfortable knowing things to do that will discourage a person from attempting
suicide. If you want to know more about QPR training, or if you would like to participate
in QPR training, give us a call at the WKU Counseling and Testing Center (745-3159)
or send an email to counseling.services@wku.edu . QPR training is free, it takes about
an hour and a half to complete, and it can help save lives.